THE CREATURE ##12-162-312
Dell Comics • The Creature (Dell Four Color / Movie Classic)
Writer
Uncredited (Unknown)
Interior Artist
Bob Fujitani
Cover Artist
Vic Prezio
Publication Date
December 1963
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
An adaptation of the 1954 Universal Pictures horror classic 'Creature from the Black Lagoon'. The story follows an expedition to the Amazon where scientists discover a prehistoric amphibious humanoid.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good (CGC 2.0)
Condition Details
Visible heavy wear including a significant corner piece missing from the upper right. Spine rolling and heavy stress lines. Possible staining/foxing on the left edge. Significant edge wear and blunted corners. General surface scuffing and creases throughout.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $60; Graded (CGC 2.0): $100 - $130
Recent Sales
High-grade copies (VF/NM) have sold for $600-$1,000+. Mid-grade copies (VG) typically sell for $150-$250. Low-grade copies with missing pieces typically sell under $75.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The significant missing piece on the upper right corner severely limits the grade (likely maxing at a 2.0 or 2.5). The cost of grading would likely exceed the added value gained for a copy in this condition.
Notable Features
Movie tie-in comic; based on the Universal Monsters film; painted cover art by Vic Prezio; key Silver Age horror/monster collectible.
Authentication Notes
The Dell logo and price point (12 cents) match the 1963 publication standards. The paper aging and cover ink saturation appear consistent with 1960s Dell newsprint stock. No obvious signs of reproduction.